The news of Japan suspending Indian mango shipments after inspection lapses is, at first glance, a matter of trade compliance and export regulation. Yet it also invites a quieter, more uncomfortable reflection closer home. In local markets such as Mokokchung, mangoes and a wide range of fruits and vegetables from across India are sold freely, with little visible regulation or systematic inspection. While no one expects local markets to mirror the strict phytosanitary regime of Japan, the contrast raises a basic but important question about food safety awareness. Are the fruits and vegetables we consume truly safe?
In many local supply chains, fruits are handled by commercial dealers who operate without consistent oversight. It is an open secret that some resort to artificial ripening methods to meet demand and maintain appearance. While regulated use of ethylene gas is generally considered safe, the concern arises when illegal substances such as calcium carbide are used. This compound, in certain forms, can contain harmful impurities like arsenic and phosphine, posing risks to human health if used improperly.
The issue is not about fear, but about accountability. Who ensures that the fruits and vegetables reaching our homes are safe for consumption? In most cases, the responsibility is diffused across multiple agencies, yet enforcement at the ground level remains weak or irregular. Market committees, food safety departments, and municipal authorities exist, but their presence is often not strongly felt in day-to-day monitoring.
This gap does not mean all produce is unsafe, nor does it suggest alarmism. Rather, it highlights a need for structured and regular inspection systems, even in smaller towns. Food safety is not a luxury reserved for export markets; it is a basic public health requirement.
Japan’s action may seem distant, but it serves as a reminder that standards exist for a reason. If external markets demand strict compliance, local consumers too deserve assurance that what reaches their plate is safe, monitored, and accountable.